Dr. Lawrence Butler

The Bridge Church, Pembroke

These four verses contain a deep revelation of the plan of God for this world. The ultimate destruction of the world as we now know it is presented, and a general time frame in which these events will occur.

Two critically important days are identified and warnings given to those of us who live on planet earth.

God’s purpose is the salvation of mankind, not his annihilation.

The first day brought to our attention is the Day of the Lord. This day has been prophesied by many of the Old Testament prophets, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Zechariah, as well as several others.

This is considered to be the period of Christ’s second advent.

He will place His feet upon the Mount of Olives, causing a rupture of the mount and the formation of a valley. From this area around Jerusalem shall flow forth living water, reaching to the former sea (Dead Sea) and the hinder sea (Mediterranean Sea).

Some think this is a reference to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and furtherance of the gospel of Christ. There can be no doubt that this day is the beginning of the Millenial reign of Christ.

He defeats His enemies at Armageddon and goes about setting up His kingdom.

The second day presented in our scriptures is identified as the Day of God. The Day of God is only mentioned in two places in the Bible, II Peter 3:12 and Revelation 16:4. It is obliquely referred to in Isaiah 61:2 and Romans 2:5. It is the day of judgment on this world.

It seems to start at the end of the Day of the Lord and then conclude during what is called the Day of God. The very elements upon which our universe is constructed will melt with fervent heat while the earth and “the works that are therein shall be burned up” (3:12).

Hope is presented for the children of God when Peter states, “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness” (3:13).

God has promised punishment for a world of sin, but He always provides a way of escape for the believers. These two special days come at the end of this age, but not at the end of our existence as Christians. We have the promise of eternal life in the eternal city of God, New Jerusalem (Rev. 21-22).

It is here that God will wipe away all our tears, and there will be no death, sorrow, crying or pain. Surely you want to go to such a place!